The research team were contracted by the Ministry of Research, Science and Technology (MoRST) to conduct a participatory evaluation using a multiple case study approach. The focus was not on the detailed monitoring of individual projects, but the development of understandings about dialogue that drew on the work of each of the projects. The aim of the Dialogue Fund Evaluation Team (later called the Cross Case Study Learning Group) was to produce an analysis that integrated information available from all the project teams. This analysis was directed at providing scientists and other key actors in this field with information that can influence their practice, as well as contributing to international knowledge in this field.